South Slope Pediatrics | Brooklyn Pediatrician Dr. Hai Cao, MD
  • Expecting? Book a Free Meet & Greet
  • 718.576.2450
  • SSP NEWS
  • Meet The Doctors + Team
  • Patient Portal
  • SSP Culture
  • SSP 4 Good
  • SSP Blog
  • Free SSP Classes
  • SSP LIVE Updates
  • Insurance
  • FAQs
  • Contact
  • SSP Jobs

South Slope Pediatrics Blog

Interview with Postpartum Doula, Mika Kleban

2/25/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
Most of us know someone who has hired a doula for support during childbirth, but did you know that there are postpartum doulas who specifically assist during the newborn stage?  They can be an unparalleled means of support and comfort for new moms, both physically and emotionally. In fact, moms who work with doulas often report lower incidences of postpartum depression, higher self-esteem, improved mother-infant interaction and a better chance of breastfeeding success.  To learn more about the benefits, we’ve spoken to Park Slope resident and mom of 2, Mika Kleban, a doula servicing new moms in the neighborhood.

SSP:  Many of us, myself included, have never worked with a doula before.  Can you tell us what your key role is in a new mother’s life? What do you think is the most critical benefit of hiring a doula?

Having a baby is one of the most profound life events there is.  Having support can make an enormous difference in the way families experience labor, delivery and the early days with a new baby. When extended family members aren't available or they are not the right fit to lend this support, doulas can fill this need beautifully.  I look to support not only the mother, but the partner too. The whole family unit is going through this together. Meeting with mother and partner (if applicable) prior to delivery can, in of itself, help the parent to feel aware and more in control of what their future will hold.  Whether they are seeking support with their labor, postpartum care - or both - they are proactively taking care of themselves and their families needs. The greatest benefits a doula can provide to each family varies depending on their individual needs. In the postpartum realm, for one family it may be support with breastfeeding and aiding in the mothers self care.  For another, the guidance on how to care for the new baby or providing emotional support may be paramount. From keeping the dirty dishes at bay to being a source of information and comfort... the benefits are abound!


SSP:  What led you to become a doula?  Did your own experience inspire you down this path?

A long while back I was thrust into a situation where I helped  a friend give birth to her baby in an intense and challenging delivery.  I left that experience feeling in my element and inspired and I was interested in helping birthing families ever since.  Fast forward 6 or so years and I had my first daughter and it only solidified my desire to be a support to families in the birthing world.

SSP:  Understanding that lack of sleep and lack of support are major contributors to postpartum depression, I would think a doula can aid greatly in this respect.  How do you see your work and contributions in a new mother’s life combat PPD?  


Not only does having the support of a postpartum doula help new parents to have a healthier and happier adjustment to life with their new baby, but it can also play the important role of identifying postpartum depression in a new parent.  Many hands make for light work and they definitely help to get parents better sleep, well fed and cared for. I approach my work with families with the intention of supporting them towards the goal of leaving them healed, happy, educated, strong and self sufficient.

SSP: How would you describe your doula style?

I would say that I am intuitive with my care.  I try to anticipate the needs of my clients. Often new parents aren't sure of exactly what they need or want and that can cause anxiety. I am there as your ally in whatever way you need.  I believe that keeping a sense of humor going here and there goes a long way too.

SSP:  Has there been one experience you’ve experienced as a doula that you think is very meaningful, and would like to share with us?

Many of my experiences are very dear to me and that is what I cherish about my work.  The most rewarding and special experiences for me are definitely those where I have been able to help a new parent out of a very fearful and anxious place and restore their sense of being in control.  There is one mom in particular that stands out, but I have had the chance to be there for parents in this way multiple times and I am grateful for that.

A recent client of Mika’s had this to say about her experience:

“After the birth of my first child, Mika was like a fairy godmother. She was endlessly kind, optimistic, and calming, exceptionally reliable and supportive, and could somehow predict what I needed before I knew I needed it. Despite frigid winter storms, she always arrived on time and was available to answer questions - no matter how small - any time of day. She brought warmth and happiness into our home each time she arrived, and was as essential to my physical recovery from childbirth as to my mental and emotional recovery.

Mika wasn't just there for me or my baby, but also essential to giving my husband support as a new father. As first-time parents, we were often unsure or overwhelmed with our newborn, but she consistently lifted us up, and reminded us to trust our instincts.  

No task was too small for Mika -  she would fold laundry, pick-up groceries, and make me (delicious!) breakfasts, as well as give exceptional care to our son while I napped or simply needed a break. She was also there for me while I struggled with the stress and sadness that accompanied breastfeeding difficulties, a part of motherhood I was not prepared for.

I wish every mother had the support that Mika gave me and my family. I recommend her with my full heart and highest compliments”.


To contact Mika Kleban, please reach out to info@southslopepediatrics.com and we will share her details.

​
0 Comments
    Picture

    Jen Valu
    contributor + supermom

    Jen Valu is the mom of 2 small children who were SSP patients. She enjoys spending time with her family, especially the silly dance parties and creative time with her kids. Recently relocated to the suburbs, she misses Park Slope terribly but appreciates the sanity that has come along with space and a yard. "Embrace the crazy" is her motto.

    Archives

    July 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015

    Categories

    All
    About Us
    Back To School
    Cartoons & Kid Stuff
    Family Activities
    Food
    Health
    Holidays
    Interview
    Kindness
    Parenting Tips
    Park Slope
    Pediatric Care Advice
    Playgrounds In Brooklyn
    Sports
    SSP Values
    Summer
    Things To Do In Brooklyn

    RSS Feed

Stay connected with South Slope Pediatrics
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
South Slope Pediatrics,
​Dr. Hai Cao, MD
​501 5th Avenue, Park Slope, NY 11215
718.576.2450
​
Monday - 8am-6pm
Tuesday - 9am-6pm
Wednesday - 12 noon -7pm
Thursday - 9am-6pm
Friday - ​9am-5pm
Call SSP
Email SSP
  • Expecting? Book a Free Meet & Greet
  • 718.576.2450
  • SSP NEWS
  • Meet The Doctors + Team
  • Patient Portal
  • SSP Culture
  • SSP 4 Good
  • SSP Blog
  • Free SSP Classes
  • SSP LIVE Updates
  • Insurance
  • FAQs
  • Contact
  • SSP Jobs